Colts' QB Anthony Richardson Benched Due to Eye Injury; Rookie Riley Leonard Steps Up
October 12, 2025
Richardson's latest injury adds to the series of health issues that have impacted his growth and playing time in the NFL.
Despite being a high draft pick, Richardson has faced limited opportunities and struggles with performance, partly due to injury setbacks.
The game was also notable for the Arizona Cardinals missing quarterback Kyler Murray, with Jacoby Brissett set to start for the team.
Since being drafted fourth overall in 2023, Richardson has played in 17 games, mostly in mop-up roles during blowouts, and has only appeared in two games this season, with limited impact.
Richardson's NFL career has been hampered by multiple injuries, including a dislocated pinky, concussion, shoulder sprain, and oblique injury, leading to limited playing time and inconsistent performance, especially in 2024.
His 2025 season has been particularly challenging, with only one completed pass for nine yards and limited appearances, following a mostly injury-plagued rookie year.
Richardson's ongoing injury issues have prevented him from establishing a consistent starting role and represent setbacks in his development.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson is inactive for their game against the Arizona Cardinals due to an eye injury sustained during pre-game warmups, which has caused him to be demoted to third-string behind Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard.
In Richardson's absence, rookie Riley Leonard will serve as the No. 2 quarterback, with starter Daniel Jones expected to play.
The Colts are also dealing with injury concerns at cornerback, as veteran Charvarius Ward suffered a concussion in pregame warmups, adding to the team's already thin depth at that position.
The Colts entered the game with a 4-1 record, led by quarterback Gardner Minshew, who has thrown for 1,290 yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions this season.
Richardson's injury occurred when he was hit in the eye during warmups, with no further details provided.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

ESPN • Oct 12, 2025
Colts' Richardson inactive after hurting eye in equipment mishap - ESPN
Bleacher Report • Oct 12, 2025
Anthony Richardson Reportedly Injured Eye 'Doing Band Work' Before Colts Game
Bleacher Report • Oct 12, 2025
Anthony Richardson Injured When Elastic Band Hit His Eye in Colts' Warmups Before Game